August 2021: The Cleveland Public Library (CPL) Main Branch located in downtown Cleveland is an amazing venue. Not only do they have an expansive catalog of books, movies, periodicals, maps, and special collection items, but they often host several special speakers/authors throughout the year. The CPL also has eSporting events with basically every video gaming console ever created and top shelf virtual reality equipment on the 2nd floor of the Louis Stokes Wing on select Saturdays. The Tech Central Station in the basement of the Louis Stokes Wing has free access to 3D printers, computing devices, and scanners. All a person will need is a state issued ID to register for a library card. The Main Building is an architectural marvel with many of the original marble staircases in tact. If you are into old, valuable books that can be a century or so old, then the Special Collections department is for you. The Foreign Literature department has a wide range of material to learn almost any language. I have a vested interest in learning Vietnamese (Tieng Viet) and they have a ton to things for me to check out. Last, but not least, they CPL.org website grants the user access to the online catalog, ways to place holds on materials, and some free subscription (license agreement) with newspaper websites, music providers, and language learning apps. Pros: * Beautiful architecture in both new wing and old building. * Friendly staff. There is always someone willing to help you find whatever you are looking for. * No fines for unreturned materials, but you will not be able to check anything else out until you do. Vastly improved structure from the old school (circa de 2015) way of accruing daily fees. * Clean library. * Climate controlled * Covid cautious rules with patron safety in mind. Must wear masks inside the building. * Serene reading garden that is only open during the warmer months. They have a stools and countertops with power receptacles outside for people who want to charge their phones, tablets, or computing devices. Cons: * No free parking downtown during weekdays. Come down during the weekend or use public transit (RTA light rail). I typically park at the casino (which is free with stipulation) and do my downtown exploring.

This is a huge public library. The building is gorgeous and is intricately decorated with marble pillars and staircases and intricate brass and wooden trim. The detailed architecture is amazing. There is an astronomical number of books available of course. They had a special display about Superman and another display of hanging wildflowers. Everything is free. This place is a GEM.

I wish I could have spent more time here but I was only in Cleveland for a day. I visited the floral art installation which was stunning. I got to wander around the building a little bit and the architectural design of the building is equally as intriguing as the massive variety of books they carry

Hellooo!! Visiting cleveland for a few days we went to this magnificent building just to take a look around. There is a photographic exhibition in the first floor. The photos show cleveland from a different eye. Honestly I enjoyed the pictures a lot and definitely recommend it if you are in the area. The building itself is a great condition. Full of books and superman material. Thanks a lot !!

Had great time and view if building is wonderful with yard to relax

The staff is knowledgeable and super helpful! The building is absolutely gorgeous! I could just walk around looking at the building all day. Add the ridiculous amount of books within its walls and you've basically placed me in heaven! There's natural light pouring through tall windows. They have such a large selection that I don't even know where to start.

Great place to visit. Unexpectedly amazing history and friendly staff. The staff was willing to explain and show and tell about their knowledge of the building and collections. Will be back.

Great place for kids. Our 2 & 3 year olds loved it. The staff are super nice and helpful. Very easy to navigate and baby stroller accessible.

I spent an hour here just to briefly feel this classic and well-designed library. I could imagine myself reading books here for a whole day if I had more time in Cleveland.

I had a wonderful (all too brief) time exploring the main branch of the Cleveland Public Library. There was a special exhibit with dried flowers hanging from the ceiling and filling the room. From there I went upstairs and discovered the chess collections, a mural commissioned by the WPA during the 1930s, and an amazing Superman exhibit. There was so much more to explore, but I only had an hour.

Full of great history and beautiful architecture. Each floor/room had its own special details to admire. Amazing array of books and maps etc that can only be found at this location. Truly a gem and one of a kind, definitely worth visiting.

A few days ago I stopped by the Tech Center at the downtown Cleveland Public Library to make copies. The service I received was awesome. I needed assistance with the entire process. I had never printed copies from my phone. The individual who helped me was considerate, kind, professional and very personable. The assistance was greatly appreciated. I must also say I was blown away by the Sophistication of the Center. Modern. Cheerful space with a 3D printer WOW Thank you Cleveland ANDREA T

Beautiful architecture. If you are a tourist in the area, go ahead and explore the library also. It’s free and open for everyone, the architecture of the first floor in the main building it’s unbelievable. In the third floor they have special collections which it’s like a museum FREE. In the second building 11th floor you can see the amazing view. Also they have computers, power outlets, tables, vending machines. Go ahead if you are around!!!

Art exhibit at Cleveland Public Library by Rebecca Louise Law. The Preserved flowers were stunning!

Love going to the Main Branch of the Cleveland Public Library. The staff is very helpful. Love their book selection especially in the Popular section.

Come for the books and archives, stay for the gorgeous architecture. I wish there were comfortable chairs to sit in by the indoor reading garden though

Wonderful building, art and architecture. Must see stop in Cleveland. Another cultural jewel that sets Cleveland apart from other cities of its size, even some larger.

The Cleveland Public Library truly is" The People's University". There's a scholastic vibe that overcomes one upon entering.

It is like a dream for any book enthusiastic. It's like combining Harvard and Hogwarts libraries together..and shosssh!! You have Cleveland's Public library 🤩🤩. It always motivates be to study....and if not explore.... I always feel like a princess..walking thought these halls